We made it to week two, ladies! Finally beginning to find my groove amongst a new schedule and new classes, yada-yada-yada. Due to my work and class times I often find myself on campus early in the morning (aka breakfast time) and middle of the day (hello, lunch time), so I am constantly stuffing my lunchbox to the brim in order to keep myself full, focused and functioning. On the same note, though, I am often rushed for time and like to keep my meals quick, simple, but still packed with nutrients and taste. So, below, I have provided an “ode to sandwiches” because sandwiches are probably one of the most staple lunch time meals and uh, hello, they’re so TASTY and versatile. I’ve provided a few of my favorites and go-tos as well as a few links to some other awesome ideas.
Slammin’ sammys:
(Use you own personal favorite bread/wrap/sandwich vehicle for all of these types of sandwiches- just try to stick to 100% whole grain!)
- Nut Butter + Fruit + “Extras”
This one is given such a vague name because there are SO many options that can be explored through this simple formula. Almond Butter, Cashew Butter, Peanut Butter, Crunchy, Smooth, etc. are just a handful of options that take care of ingredient #1. Moving on to the fruit also provides you with much room for versatility. I usually stick to basic bananas, apples, peaches, but don’t hesitate to get creative and try your personal favorite fruit! Now, as far as the “extras” go- this allows you to get a little funky, add some flavor or crunch and maybe add some extra nutrients for a powerhouse sandwich! I am a huge fan of a couple tablespoons of granola or crunchy cereal or maybe some chia or flax seeds for added protein and fiber. Like I said, this sandwich combo really allows you to get creative, so, go for it!
- Turkey+Cheese+Fruit
This sandwich is great if you’re into the sweet and salty combo. I’ve tried a few different cheese/fruit options, but my go-tos are: turkey + laughing cow cheese spread + apple + a little smear of Dijon mustard // turkey + cheddar cheese + granny smith apple // turkey + laughing cow + peach. Gobble, gobble, gobble!
- Hummus + Veggies
This one is, again, super easy and super customizable depending on what you have on hand! Smear some hummus on your bread (for this sandwich, I think it pairs best with hearty whole grain sandwich bread) and then add whatever veggies you have on hand to slice up! I would recommend peppers, cucumber, tomatoes and some type of greens, like kale or spinach! You could also add a few shakes of feta cheese or a drizzle of balsamic dressing for some added pizazz!
Now here are a few all-stars I stumbled upon on the world wide inter-web:
1. http://www.healthyrecipeecstasy.com/banana-almond-butter-french-toast-sandwiches-maple-drizzle — For breakfast? For lunch? Dare I say, for dinner? This looks SO awesome!
2. http://motherrimmy.com/ham-and-swiss-anyone-ham-and-swiss-panini-with-mushrooms-and-kale/ — MMMMMM
3. http://www.chelciesfoodfiles.com/2011/12/06/how-to-make-the-best-egg-white-wrap-ever/ — oh yes, eggy deliciousness
4. http://yummyaddiction.com/kale-sweet-potato-quesadillas/ — Nothing like a DANG good quesadilla, especially when it’s loaded with tons of nutrients!
Okay, time to wrap this article up because I am now beginning to drool over all these amazing looking sandwiches and I am not quite sure I want to have to tell my parents I need a new keyboard because my slobber got too out of control. Hope you ladies enjoy some of these delicious concoctions and keep moving towards a better, healthier you!